Security Systems and Methods for Continuously Monitoring the Weight of a Container

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to weight monitoring systems for recovering, processing, monitoring, and managing various commodities or products stored in a container.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/523,254, filed Jun. 14, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/435,207 filed May 4, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No.8,203,459, issued Jun. 19, 2012, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/948,821 filed Nov. 30, 2007, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,194,129 issued Jun. 5, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/903,000 filed on Apr. 3, 2007, all ofwhich are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This description is related to weight monitoring systems and relatedmethods.

BACKGROUND

With the increasing value of commodities such as precious metals, oil,gas, or grains, monitoring and verifying the weight of these commoditiesis increasingly important. Accordingly, various types of scales havebeen developed to obtain the weight of the contents of a container.However, scales and other similar devices have limited functionalitysince these devices provide little to no security for the contents ofthe container. For example, unscrupulous individuals may add ballast toincrease the weight of the container's contents to allegedly increasethe value of the container's contents. Alternatively, individuals mayremove items from the container's contents. Accordingly, there remains aneed for devices and systems for monitoring a container's contents.

SUMMARY

Briefly, and in general terms, various embodiments are directed to aweight monitoring system for recovering, processing and monitoringvarious commodities or products stored in a container. In oneembodiment, the weight monitoring system includes a container having anidentification tag provided on a surface of the container, a supportdevice for receiving the container, a weight monitoring system, and asecurity system for monitoring the container. The weight monitoringsystem also includes a plurality of load sensors coupled to the supportdevice, in which the plurality of load sensors monitors any weightvariance of the container.

In another embodiment, a weight monitoring system includes a system forprocessing a material and storing the material within a securedcontainer. The weight monitoring system also includes a system formonitoring a weight of the secured container as the processed materialis placed within the secured container. The weight monitoring systemfurther includes a computer system in communication with the weightmonitoring system, in which the computer system is adapted to generatean invoice based on the weight of the processed material within thesecured container prior to removing the secured container from theweight monitoring system.

In yet another embodiment, the weight monitoring system includes asystem for processing and loading a material into a secured container.The weight monitoring system also includes a system for detecting weightvariances of the processed material placed within the secured container.A web interface is also in communication with the weight monitoringsystem, in which the web interface is capable of obtaining a currentvalue of the processed material. A computer system is also incommunication with the weight monitoring system and the web interface.The computer system is adapted to assign and book a current monetaryvalue to the processed material stored within the secured container.

In another embodiment, a weight management system includes a weightmonitoring system in communication with a central monitoring system. Theweight monitoring system measures a weight of a secured container at aremote site, and the weight monitoring system transmits the weight ofthe secured container to the central monitoring system. The centralmonitoring system dispatches pickup of the secured container when apredetermined percentage of a weight capacity of the secured containeris achieved.

In addition to weight management systems, various methods for securelyrecovering materials are disclosed herein. According to one method, asecured container is locked onto a weight monitoring system having aplurality of load sensors for monitoring weight variances of the securedcontainer. The secured container is identified, and the tare weight ofthe container is also obtained. A recovery transaction is theninitiated. An alert is sent to one or more designated parties inresponse to a detected variance in container weight that is outside apredetermined weight variance during the recovery transaction. When therecovery process is terminated, recovery data is transmitted to one ormore designated parties, in which the recovery data includes, at aminimum, data related to the weight of the material contained within thesecured container. Additionally, a party is then invoiced based on therecovery data.

Another method is directed to realizing assets for a company. Accordingto one method, a secured container having a tare weight is locked onto aweight monitoring system. The weight monitoring system includes aplurality of load sensors for obtaining and monitoring a weight of thesecured container. A recovery transaction is initiated, and scrap metalis recovered from a site. The recovered scrap metal is then stored inthe secured container. A net weight of the stored scrap metal in thesecured container is obtained, and a value of the scrap metal iscalculated. The value of the scrap metal is based upon the net weight ofthe scrap metal and a monetary value of the scrap metal per unit ofweight. Once the value of the scrap metal is calculated, the value ofthe scrap metal is booked as an asset of the company.

Another method is directed to managing one or more containers located atone or more remote sites. In one method, a secured container having atare weight is locked onto a weight monitoring system. The weightmonitoring system includes a plurality of load sensors for obtaining andmonitoring a weight of the secured container. The weight monitoringsystem is also in communication with a central management server. Thecontainer is identified at the remote site, and the weight of thecontainer is monitored. A message is transmitted to a central managementserver when the weight of the container contents reaches a predeterminedweight. Pickup of the container is scheduled in response to thetransmitted message, and a designated party is invoiced based on theweight of the container once the container is transported away from theremote site.

Other features and advantages will become apparent from the followingdetailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, which illustrate by way of example, the features of thevarious embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a weight monitoringsystem.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another embodiment of a weight monitoringsystem.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate various embodiments of a weight-obtaining system.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate alternate embodiments of a weight-obtainingsystem.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate various embodiments of container usable with aweight monitoring system.

FIG. 6A is a block diagram of a computer system for one embodiment of aweight monitoring system.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a computer systemassociated with one embodiment of a weight monitoring system.

FIG. 7 is a front view of one embodiment of a label generated by theweight monitoring system.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a data management system used with a weightmonitoring system.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a processing system used with a weightmonitoring system.

FIG. 10 is a side view of one embodiment of a centrifuge used in theprocessing system of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the interior of the centrifuge shown inFIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments are directed to a weight monitoring system thatmonitors the contents of a container in order to prevent any tamperingaltering of the container's contents. For the sake of brevity, theweight monitoring system will be discussed in terms of recovering andsecuring scrap metal. However, it is contemplated that the weightmonitoring system may be utilized for any product or commodity in whicha product's value is based on weight. For example, the weight monitoringsystem may be used in monitoring weight of fluids such as, but notlimited to, crude oil or gasoline. The weight monitoring system may alsobe used to monitor the weight (or variances in the weight) of anycommodity or product in which the value is weight-based.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals denotelike or corresponding parts throughout the drawings and, moreparticularly to FIG. 1, there is shown one embodiment of a weightmonitoring system 10 having a weight-obtaining system 12 and a securitysystem 14. Generally, the weight monitoring system 10 uses a securedcontainer 14 to ensure that the container's contents are not readilyaccessible. In one embodiment, the weight obtaining system 12 includes acontainer 14 and a weight-obtaining device 16 such as, but not limitedto, a scale, one or more load sensors, or weighing devices known ordeveloped in the art. In one embodiment, the security system 18includes, by way of example but not by way of limitation, a lockingmechanism to secure the container to the weight-obtaining system 16, oneor more cameras, and/or one or more sensors.

As shown in FIG. 2, the weight monitoring system 10 may includeadditional systems for carrying out additional functions. For example,the system 10 includes a processing system 20 for converting unprocessedscrap metal into a final, processed material. The processing system 20may include one or more devices for cleaning, shredding, crushing,pucking, or baling the scrap metal before it is placed within a securedcontainer 14. Additionally, the weight monitoring system 10 may alsoinclude an accounting system 22 for booking assets, invoicing parties,and other accounting/data collection functions. In yet anotherembodiment, the weight monitoring system 10 includes a tracking system24 for managing the transportation of the containers. In one embodiment,the weight monitoring system 10 is a self-contained system having itsown power supply. For example, the weight monitoring system 10 may haveits own generator and/or one or more batteries. Alternatively, theweight monitoring system 10 may include solar panels and/or windturbines for generating electricity.

FIG. 3A illustrates one embodiment of a weight monitoring system 10having a support surface 26 for receiving a container 14 and a pluralityof weight-obtaining devices 30 positioned below the support surface. Inone embodiment, the support surface 26 is a generally flat platform thatis sized to receive a container 14. The platform may include one or moreslots, grooves, recesses, locks, hooks, elevated or recessed rails, orsimilar devices to secure the container to the platform surface. Asshown in FIG. 3A, the support surface 26 includes a pair of elevatedrails 28 for engaging a container's rollers or wheels. As those skilledin the art will appreciate, the rails 28 are sized and spaced to receivea container 14. In one embodiment, the rails 28 are provided on anadjustable platform 32 so that distance between the rails may be variedto accommodate containers 14 of different sizes as shown in FIG. 3B. Inyet another embodiment, the rails 28 are directly fixed to the ground asshown in FIG. 3C. In other embodiments, the support surface 26 may beshaped or take the form of a container, tray, and/or bowl as shown inFIG. 3D.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, a plurality of load sensors 30 are placed belowthe support surface 26, below the elevated rails 28, or between thesupport surface and the elevated rails. The plurality of load sensors 30are used to obtain the weight of the container 14 as well as any scrapmetal placed within the container. As shown in FIG. 3A, the load sensors30 are positioned at opposite ends of each rail 28. In otherembodiments, the load sensors 30 may be positioned at the middle of therails 28. In yet another embodiment, four load sensors 30 are positionedat the four corners of the support surface 26. In yet anotherembodiment, a single load sensor 30 is placed in the middle or center ofthe support surface 26. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, anynumber of load sensors 30 may be used to obtain the weight of thecontainer 14 and the container's contents.

Additionally, the load capacity and sensitivity of the load sensors 30may be varied depending upon the weight and capacity of the container14. For example, more sensitive load sensors 30 may be used for lowerweights and/or smaller variations in weight. Alternatively, more robustload sensors 30 may be used to obtain the weight of large shipping orroll-away containers 14. In yet another embodiment, the weight-obtainingdevice 16 may use a combination of sensitive and robust load sensors 30.Depending on the application, the load sensors 30 may also be weightcertified or non-certified sensors.

In one embodiment, the weight-obtaining system 12 may also include adrive mechanism for loading a container 14 onto and/or off the supportsurface 26. The drive mechanism may be a chain-driven, screw-driven,rack and pinion, or winch system. The drive mechanism may behand-powered or may be powered by electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, orinternal combustion motors. Optionally, the drive mechanism may includeone or more gears and/or a transmission.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-D, the weight monitoring system 10 includes asingle support surface 26. In another embodiment, the weight monitoringsystem 10 has a plurality of support surfaces 26 for engaging andsecuring a plurality of containers 14. As shown in FIG. 4A, theplurality of support surfaces 26 may be arranged in a carousel fashion.Alternatively, the plurality of support surfaces 26 may be arranged in alinear fashion as shown in FIG. 4B. In one application, the plurality ofcontainers 14 may be used to load different types of materials (e.g.,individual container for titanium, aluminum, and steel). Alternatively,the multiple containers 14 may be used to increase capacity to storerecovered scrap metal (as well as recovery efficiency) by eliminatingthe need to remove a full container 14 from the support surface 26 andsubsequently load an empty container onto the support surface.

According to one embodiment, the support surface 26 and/or rails 28 aresized to receive industry standard roll-off containers. In anotherembodiment, the weight monitoring system 10 is capable of receivingsmaller bins in a wide variety of sizes and configurations. Thecontainers 14 are generally rectangular in shape having a bottom surface34 and at least one wall 36 that defines an area capable of holdingsolid and/or semi-solid materials, or fluids. As shown in FIG. 5A, thecontainer 14 includes a bottom surface 34 and four walls 36. Optionally,the container 14 includes one or more doors 38 for accessing thecontents of the container. The doors 38 may include mechanical locks,electronic locks, combination locks, cylinder locks, or any other lockknown or developed in the art. In yet another embodiment, the container14 includes a top 40 secured to the four walls 36. In one embodiment,the top 40 of the container includes an opening 42 for receivingmaterial. Optionally, the opening 42 may be reversibly sealed with alid, plug, or other device for limiting access to the contents of thecontainer 14. The lid or plug may be pivotally coupled to the top 40 sothat the lid covers the opening 42 in a first position and exposes theopening in a second position. Alternatively, the lid or plug may bewelded or otherwise secured over the opening 42 of the top 40.

In various embodiments, the container 14 may include one or more rollers44 rotatably coupled to the bottom of the container for moving thecontainer (e.g., loading or unloading the container onto or off a weightmonitoring system or a truck). Alternatively, the container 14 includesone or more rails 46 coupled to the base of the container 14 as shown inFIG. 5B. In another embodiment, one or more pockets 48 for moving and/orlifting the container 14 as shown in FIG. 5C.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the container 14 also includes an identificationtag 50 located on one or more of the outer surfaces of the container.The identification tag 50 may include a bar code, color code, ornumerical code, alphanumeric code, or other forms of identifying anobject known and developed in the art. In one embodiment, the tareweight of the container 14 is also provided on the identification tag50. In another embodiment, the identification tag 50 also includes aradiofrequency tag (RFID). The RFID may contain information about thecontainer size, container capacity, tare weight of the container,origin, manufacturer name, or other information that a user may desireto store or associate with the RFID. In another embodiment, theidentification tag 50 may also be associated with or include a globalpositioning system (GPS) receiver.

Referring back to FIGS. 1-2, the weight monitoring system 10 includes asecurity system 18. The security system 18 includes one or more devicesto prevent the removal of the container 14, scrap metal from thecontainer, or contamination of the scrap metal stored in the container.In order to prevent the removal of the container 14 from the weightmonitoring system 10, the support surface 26 includes a lockingmechanism to secure the container 14 to the support surface. The lockingmechanism may be a wheel block or a wheel chuck that is secured to thesupport surface 26 by a mechanical lock, electronic lock, combinationlock, cylinder lock, or any other lock known or developed in the art. Inanother embodiment, the drive mechanism that is used to position thecontainer 14 on the support surface 26 may include a driveshaft lock orother lock that prevents the movement of the container. In yet anotherembodiment, the lock mechanism is a pivotable hook that engages aportion of the container 14 such as, but not limited to, a lip of thecontainer, an opening on the bottom of the container, or container rail46. In another embodiment, the security system 18 controls or activatesa brake mechanism associated with the rollers 44 of a container. Thebrake mechanism may be a simple brake shoe that contacts the rollers 44.Alternatively, the brake mechanism is a drum or disc brake associatedwith the rollers 44.

In another embodiment, the security system 18 includes one or moredevices for monitoring the weight-obtaining system 12 and, optionally,the area surrounding the weight-obtaining system. The security system 18may periodically or continuously monitor a container 14 locked to thesupport device 26. The security system 18 monitors the container 14 sothat there is no unauthorized removal of scrap metal from the container.Additionally, the security system 18 may be used to ensure that nounwanted material (e.g., ballast or fluids) is added to the container 14(and thereby unscrupulously increase the weight and “value” of thecontainer's contents).

According to one embodiment, the security system 18 includes one or morecameras (photographic and/or video) that are positioned around thecontainer 14 and/or weight-obtaining system 12. In another embodiment,one or more motion detection sensors are positioned around the container14. The motion detectors may be in operable communication with lights oran audible alarm. In yet another embodiment, the security system 18includes one or more cameras and one or more motion detector sensors.The security system 18 may be set at any particular times (e.g., afterwork hours, weekends, when the device is not in use, or the like). Inthe event that there is an intrusion into the container or a predefinedarea surrounding the container, visual and/or auditory warnings areemitted. Optionally, the security system 18 may generate a message(e.g., email, text message, or phone call) that is also sent to one ormore designated individuals when the security system is tripped. Theelectronic message may also include a photograph or video footage of theintrusion.

In another embodiment, the security system 18 includes features thatlimit access to a control panel and/or computer system that isassociated with the weight monitoring system 10. For example, thesecurity system 18 may include card access locks that require a key cardto access a computer system, release the container 14 from the supportdevice 26, or activate the weight-obtaining system 12. It is alsocontemplated that the key cards have different levels of access. Forexample, a machine operator may only be able to access the computersystem to initiate the weight monitoring and/or scrap metal recoveryprocess whereas a manager may have a key card that gives the manager therights to unlock the container 14 from the support device 26 or accessthe computer system to generate reports or invoices.

Alternatively, a personal identification number (PIN) or other challengeand response system may be used to gain access to the control paneland/or the computer system. In another embodiment, the security system18 includes biometric devices for identifying an individual viafingerprints, iris scans, retinal scans, facial recognition, handgeometry, hand veins, finger veins, facial thermograms, odor or scent,palm prints, footprints, or any combination thereof Alternatively, thesecurity system 18 includes devices to detect behavioral biometric datasuch as, but not limited to, an individual's signature, keystrokedynamics, voice recognition, or any combination thereof

Optionally, the security system 18 may also include a communicationsystem 54. The communication system 54 may be used to send messages oralerts to the local authorities or designated individuals in the companyin response to a security breach detected by the security system 18. Thecommunication system 52 may include a computer, a phone line, wirelesshardware, and/or network hardware to transmit voice and/or electronicmessages (e.g., emails, text messages, picture messages, video messages,or the like). Alternatively, the security system 18 may utilize thecommunication equipment that is associated with a computer system of theweight monitoring system 10.

Additionally, the security system 18 may be used during the scrap metalrecovery process. For example, the security system 18 may be used toverify the identity of the container by reading the identification tag50 or RFID associated with the container 14. Alternatively, the securitysystem 18 may take a photographic or video image of the identificationtag 50. The photographic or video image may then be compared against acompany's records to verify the container's identity. Additionally, thesecurity system 18 may be used to compare the listed tare weight of thecontainer to the actual weight of the container. In the event there is adiscrepancy between the tare weight and the actual weight of the emptycontainer, the container may be flagged for further follow-up.Optionally, a message is sent to one or more designated individuals inresponse to the container discrepancy.

The security system 18 may be used to detect irregular weight changesand signal an appropriate response such as, but not limited to, emittingan audible signal, alarm, or calling or sending a message to theappropriate individuals. For example, a dramatic weight loss, which maybe indicative of someone stealing material from the container 14, maytrigger a message to be sent to the local authorities as well as thedesignated individuals in the company. Alternatively, the message orsignal may be emitted in response to an abnormal jump in the weight ofthe container's contents. For example, during the scrap metal recoveryprocess, a dramatic rise in the weight of the container as compared tothe filling rate of the container may be indicative of an individualadding ballast or fluids into the container to increase the weight ofthe container.

In yet another embodiment, the security system 18 also includes anemergency shut-off switch. The switch may halt the recovery process inresponse to a security breach, natural disaster (e.g., earthquake,hurricane, flood), or an onsite injury.

In addition to the weight-obtaining system 12 and the security system18, the weight monitoring system 10 includes a computer system 60. Asshown in FIG. 6, the computer system 60 includes a user interface 62having a display 64 such as, but not limited to, a cathode ray tube,liquid crystal display, or other display device. The user interface 62also includes one or more input mechanisms 66 such as, but not limitedto, a keyboard, keypad, one or more buttons, mouse, trackball, touchscreen, touch glass, or other user input device known or developed inthe art. The computer system 60 further includes a computer processingunit, memory, operating system, and one or more software programs. Theoperating system may be Windows-based, Linux-based, Unix-based, a Macoperating system, or other operating systems known or developed in theart.

In one embodiment, the computer system 60 has wireless and/or wiredcommunication capabilities with an onsite or offsite network. Thecommunication capabilities allow the computer system 60 to receiveupdates, reprogramming, diagnostics, maintenance, or any combinationthereof. The communication capabilities also allow the computer system60 to send data to one or more designated parties, computer systems, orother networks. Any messages or packets of information sent over thenetwork may be encrypted using a rotating algorithm, changing randomkeys, RSA, hashing, or other encryption techniques known or developed inthe art. In one embodiment, the computer system 60 has a data storageunit (e.g., one or more servers) that is remote (e.g., a separate onsiteand/or offsite location) from the computer system.

The computer system 60 may also include one or more printers 68 forgenerating reports, invoices, or labels. In one embodiment, a printer 68is associated with the user interface 62 and is local to theweight-obtaining system 12. A printer 68 may also be remotely located onthe backend of the computer system 60. As shown in FIG. 7, the label 70may include information such as, but not limited to, containeridentification, user identification, weight monitoring systemidentification, time and date stamps, identification of material (e.g.,aluminum, platinum, crude oil, or the like) tare weight, gross weight(container and material weight), and net weight. The label 70 may alsoinclude bar codes or other machine readable code that represents theinformation printed on the label.

The computer system 60 includes a user interface 62 that may be local tothe weight-obtaining system 12. For example, the user interface 62 maybe positioned near the support surface 26. In another embodiment, thecomputer system 60 and the user interface 62 are located remotely fromthe weight-obtaining system 12. For example, the computer system 60 maybe located in another location in the same facility or the computersystem is located at a different facility. The computer system 60 isgenerally in communication with all the components of the weightmonitoring system 10. Alternatively, the computer system 60 may only bein communication with the components of the weight-obtaining system 12.

In those embodiments in which the computer system 60 is local to one ormore of the components or systems of the weight monitoring system 10, asecure housing 72 for weather protection and to prevent unauthorizedaccess to the computer system as shown in FIG. 6B. Optionally, thecomputer system 60 as well as the other components of the weightmonitoring system 10 include a dedicated power supply 74 to prevent thesystem from being defeated, disabled, or tampered with by cutting thepower supply. Additionally, a dedicated power supply 74 allows theweight monitoring system 10 to be self-contained as well as portable.

Since the computer system 60 is in communication with the load sensors30 of the weight monitoring system 10, the computer system can sendalerts (e.g., email, text message, voice message, instant message) whena particular net weight is achieved or if a weight imbalance is detectedwithin the container 14. Additionally, the computer system 60 may send amessage to designated individuals prior to a weight limit being achievedin order to prevent overloading of the container 14. Accordingly, thedesignated individuals may take steps to halt the loading of items intothe container 14. In another embodiment, the computer system 60 remotelylocks the doors 28 of the container 14 to prevent further access oroverloading of the container. In another embodiment, the computer system60 activates a mechanism to cover the top of the container 14 to preventany additional items to be placed within the container.

In another embodiment, a data management system 80 is in communicationwith the various components of one or more weight monitoring systems 10as shown in FIG. 8. The data management system 80 includes a securenetwork 82, a central server 84, and one or more user interfaces 86 incommunication with the central server. Alternatively, the datamanagement system 80 may utilize the user interface 62 or computerassociated with the computer system 60. The network 82 may be anEthernet network, Wi-Fi network, or other networks known or developed inthe art.

The data management system 80 may periodically request or receive weightinformation from a weight monitoring system 10. Alternatively, the datamanagement system 80 will receive weight information related to aparticular container 14 when the container 14 has achieved apredetermined weight, reached a particular capacity level (e.g., 80% ofcontainer's maximum capacity), when the container is full, or anycombination thereof. Additionally, data may be automatically sent to thecentral server 84 when the container 14 is removed from the supportdevice 26. In addition to weight information, the data transmitted mayalso include the container identification, user identification, weightmonitoring system identification, time and date stamps, type of materialstored in the container, or any combination thereof.

Optionally, data is not only sent to the central server 84, but the datais also sent to designated people such as, but not limited to, accountmanager, floor supervisor, one or more principals, executives, or thelike. The designated recipients may be added or removed through thecentral server 84. The data is sent in the form of an email, textmessage, voice message, instant message, or other forms of datacommunication known or developed in the art. The data transmissions tothe central server 84 and the designated party may be encrypted andauthenticated using known techniques in the art.

The data transmissions may also be sent to other systems incommunication with the central server 84 such as, but not limited to,accounting 88 or tracking 90 systems. When the accounting system 88receives a data transmission, the accounting system may generate aninvoice that is sent to the intended recipient of the container 14. Theinvoice is based upon the net weight of the container 14 as it leavesthe weight monitoring system 10, thereby resulting in an accurate andverifiable price that is priced by a pre-arranged formula. According toone embodiment, the price of the material per weight is agreed uponprior to recovery of the material. In another embodiment, the price ofthe material is obtained by using selected indices posted on a websiteor a designated database. Accordingly, a vendor or supplier may requestthat the recovery process terminate before the container is full to takeadvantage of a high price of the collected materials.

Another embodiment of the weight monitoring system 10 may include atracking system 90 for tracking a container 14. In one embodiment, thecontainer 14 includes a global positioning receiver for identifying thelocation of a container 14. Accordingly, a service provider ordispatcher can follow the location of the container 14. Additionally, awarning may be sent to the dispatcher in the event the container 14 hasbeen diverted from a predetermined route. Thus, the dispatcher may takethe necessary steps to determine the cause of the diversion.

The tracking system 90 may also be used to manage the various containers14 that a service provider may have out in the field. The trackingsystem 90 is able to send a message to the dispatcher that the container14 has reached a predetermined weight, thereby signalling the dispatcherto schedule a pickup of the container. In one embodiment, the trackingsystem 90 includes software that will obtain the weight of thecontainers out in service and establish a pick-up schedule based uponthe rate that the containers are being filled (e.g., rate of weight gainon a daily or hourly basis). The weight data obtained by the trackingsystem 90 may be sent to a trucking and/or container company to ensurethat a truck having the proper weight capacity is used to pick up thefilled container 14. Additionally, the weight data may be used to notifythe trucking company that a larger or smaller container may be needed onsite. For example, if containers are typically overloaded or underutilized, a larger or smaller container 14 may be brought to the sitewhen the full container is hauled away from the site.

When the containers are picked up, the net weight of the container'scontents and pickup data (e.g., time and date, location, truck driver,status of container (i.e., damaged)) may be transmitted to the centralserver. Optionally, the containers used with the tracking system 90 mayalso include one or more load sensors 30 that can detect if there is aload shift (outside of an allowable norm) in the container 14. If a loadshift has occurred, the tracking system 90 may send a message to thedriver of the vehicle as well as the dispatcher.

According to another embodiment, the weight monitoring system 10 mayinclude a processing system 92 for processing the material before beingloaded into the container 14. The processing equipment provides anadditional level of accuracy when determining the weight of the materialto be recovered by removing any contaminants associated with thematerial. As shown in FIG. 9, the processing system 92 may include apre-processing storage system 94, a sorting system 96, and a cleaningsystem 98. Once the product is sorted and cleaned, the product is storedwithin a secured container 14.

In one embodiment, the pre-processing storage system 94 is a bin holdingthe raw scrap metal. In another embodiment, the pre-processing storagesystem 94 may be a secured container 14 that is monitored by thesecurity system 18. The secured container 14 and security system 18ensures that the entire process from recovering, processing and shippingscrap metal is monitored. Accordingly, the pre-processing storage system94 may include a weight-obtaining system 12 having one or more loadsensors 30 to obtain the gross weight of the raw material beforeprocessing. Accordingly, if the system 10 monitors the weight of the rawmaterial, net weight of the processed material, and the weight of thewaste material, the operator is able to determine if there is any weightdiscrepancies due to the introduction of foreign substances (e.g.,ballast to make the container heavier) or unexplained product loss(e.g., due to theft).

In one embodiment, the processing system 94 includes devices for sortingand cleaning the raw material such as, but not limited to one or moresorting tables, air separators, magnetic separators, or one or morecentrifuges. In another embodiment, the processing system 94 includesdevices for cleaning or decontaminating the raw material. In yet anotherembodiment, the processing system 94 includes one or more devices foranalyzing the material composition (e.g., alloy analysis) of the rawmaterials. The processing system 94 may also include one or more devicesfor changing the form/shape of the raw material. These devices include,but are not limited to, crushers, rotary shredders, centrifuges (forseparating liquid from the material), puckers, briquetters, or balers.In yet another embodiment, the processing system 94 includes devices formoving the raw material from one device to another and/or loading theprocessed product into the container such as, but not limited to,conveyors, augers, or the like.

According to one embodiment, a centrifuge 100 is used to separate scrapmetal from any associated fluids (e.g., water, coolants, lubricants,oils, water-soluble petroleums, or the like). As shown in FIG. 10, thecentrifuge 100 includes a main body 102 tilted at an angle. The angle ofthe centrifuge 100 allows dry scrap metal to be propelled out of thecentrifuge due to centrifugal forces, thereby eliminating the need for ablower to remove dried scrap metal. In one embodiment, the main body 102of the centrifuge 100 is tilted at an angle of about 38° fromhorizontal. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the centrifuge100 may be oriented at any angle from horizontal to vertical (i.e., 90°from horizontal). Optionally, the centrifuge may include a blower orvacuum to facilitate the removal of dried material from the centrifuge.

As shown in FIG. 10, the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100 isgenerally conical in shape. A lid 104 secured to the first end of themain body 102. In one embodiment, the lid 104 includes an inlet 106 forreceiving unprocessed (e.g., wet scrap metal) within the main body 102of the centrifuge 100. As shown in FIG. 10, the inlet 106 is positionedaround the center of the lid 102. An outlet 108 is positionedtangentially to the outer surface of the main body 102 of the centrifuge100. When pieces of the scrap metal are dried, the scrap metal becomesairborne and exits out of the centrifuge 100 through the outlet 108.Piping or other conduits 109 are connectable to the outlet 108. In oneembodiment, the piping leads to a secured container 14.

As shown in FIG. 10, a housing 110 is connected to the main body 102 ofthe centrifuge 100. The housing 110 includes the drive mechanism 112(e.g., motor, driveshaft, transmission, gears, bearings, etc.) forspinning a drum 114 within the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100.

At the base of the main body 102 of the centrifuge 100, an opening 116is provided to allow the liquids separated from the scrap metal drainfrom the centrifuge. The fluids may be stored in a pan or one or morecontainers. The collected fluids may be recycled for use in machining ormanufacturing process. Optionally, the collected fluids may be furtherprocessed so that the valuable lubricants may be used again.Alternatively, the processed fluids may be sold or returned to amanufacturer or processor.

FIG. 11 illustrates a rotatable drum 114 that is positioned within themain body 102 of the centrifuge 100. The rotatable drum 114 includes agenerally conical body 118. A driveshaft (not shown) or other forcetransmission element is coupled to the base of the drum 114. A generallycircular band 120 having a plurality of openings 122 is positioned atthe top of the conical body 118, and a lip 124 is attached to thecircular band 120. The openings 122 are used to separate the metal fromthe fluids. In another embodiment, the entire surface of the drum 114may include a plurality of openings 122 for separating fluid from thescrap metal. In one embodiment, the lip 124 is generally perpendicularto the generally circular band 120. In another embodiment, the lip 124is angled relative to the circular band 120. As shown in FIG. 11, one ormore paddles 126 protrude from the surface of the rotatable drum 114,but it is also contemplated that other embodiments of the rotatable drumdo not include any paddles.

When wet scrap metal is placed within the centrifuge 100, the wet scrapmetal drops to the base of the drum 114. As the scrap metal is spun, theliquid moves up the side of the drum 114 and exits through the generallycircular band 120. As the metal dries within the drum 114, the pieces ofscrap metal become airborne due to centrifugal forces, move up towardthe first end of the main body 102, and exit through the outlet 108. Thelip 124 prevents any scrap metal from falling back towards the base ofthe main body 102.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that not all weightmonitoring systems will have all these components and may have othercomponents in addition to, or in lieu of, those components mentionedhere. Furthermore, while these components are viewed and describedseparately, various components may be integrated into a single unit insome embodiments.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limit the claimedinvention. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize variousmodifications and changes that may be made to the claimed inventionwithout following the example embodiments and applications illustratedand described herein, and without departing from the true spirit andscope of the claimed invention, which is set forth in the followingclaims.

What is claimed:
 1. A weight management system, comprising: a weightmonitoring system measuring a weight of a secured container at a remotesite, the weight monitoring system transmitting the weight of thesecured container to a central monitoring site; and a central monitoringsystem in communication with the weight monitoring system at the remotesite, the central monitoring system dispatching pickup of the securedcontainer when a predetermined percentage of a weight capacity of thesecured container is achieved.
 2. The weight management system of claim1, further comprising an accounting system in communication with thecentral monitoring system, the accounting system generating an invoiceupon the removal of the secured container from the weight monitoringsystem at the remote site.
 3. The weight management system of claim 1,further comprising a tracking system for monitoring a current locationof the secured container.
 4. The weight management system of claim 1,wherein the secured container further comprises: two or more loadsensors; and a data transmission device for sending a message to thecentral monitoring system when a load shift above a predeterminedthreshold is detected in the secured container.
 5. A method for weightmanagement of one or more containers located at one or more remotesites, the method comprising: securing a container to a weightmonitoring system located at a remote site, the weight management systemincluding a plurality of load sensors for obtaining and monitoring aweight of the container, and a central management server incommunication with the weight monitoring system; identifying thecontainer at the remote site; monitoring the weight of the container;transmitting a message to the central management server when the weightof the container reaches a predetermined weight; scheduling pickup ofthe container; and invoicing a designated party based on the weight ofthe container once the container is transported away from the remotesite.
 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising preventing theloading of any additional material into the container after the messageis transmitted to the central management server.
 7. The method of claim5, further comprising tracking the container during transit.
 8. Themethod of claim 7, further comprising transmitting an alert todesignated individuals in response to the container deviating from apredetermined route.
 9. The method of claim 7, further comprising:detecting a load imbalance in the container during transit of thecontainer; and transmitting an alert to designated individuals inresponse to the load imbalance.